Special Issue Guidelines
Guidelines for Special Issue
Table of Contents
Special Issues focus on a specific, timely topic within the scope of the journal and are intended to provide a comprehensive, in-depth exploration of the subject matter. They are curated by Guest Editors and contain contributions of high-quality research articles, book reviews, and/or case studies.
1. Proposal Submission
Guest Editor(s) must submit a proposal that includes:
- Title: A concise and engaging title accurately reflecting the theme.
- Overview: A brief overview of the theme and its significance to research trends.
- Rationale: Why this topic is timely and worthy of a dedicated issue.
- Scope: Primary goals and the specific questions the issue will address.
- Themes: A breakdown of the central theme into specific sub-themes.
- Contributions: Expected types (original research, reviews, theoretical papers).
- Relevance: Alignment with the journal's mission and readership.
- Team Details: Proposed Guest Editors’ and Reviewers’ names and biodata.
2. Role of Guest Editor(s)
- Promoting the Special Issue and inviting contributions.
- Managing the peer review process in coordination with the editorial office.
- Ensuring all submissions meet the journal’s rigorous standards.
- Authoring an editorial or preface for the Special Issue.
3. Submission & Review Process
- All manuscripts must be submitted through the journal’s official submission system.
- Authors are required to select the specific Special Issue title during submission.
- Submissions undergo double-blind peer review in line with journal policy.
9. Ethical Considerations
- The special issue must maintain the highest standards of research integrity.
- Potential conflicts of interest must be disclosed and managed.
- Editors-in-Chief retain ultimate responsibility for all published content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can apply to be a Guest Editor?
Established researchers and experts in a specific field relevant to the journal's scope are encouraged to apply. We particularly value teams with diverse international perspectives and a strong track record of publication and peer review.
Q: How many articles should a Special Issue contain?
A typical Special Issue consists of 8 to 12 high-quality research articles, plus an introductory editorial or preface authored by the Guest Editors.
Q: What support does the Editorial Office provide?
The office assists with the administrative management of the submission system, provides ethical oversight, helps with formatting, and leads promotional outreach via global networks.